Media Advisory: Expert available to talk about environmental efforts at Manitoba beaches through the Blue Flag certification program

Media Advisory/Interview Opportunity: Expert available to talk about environmental efforts at Manitoba beaches through the Blue Flag certification program Toronto, ON – Amid growing concerns about the state of Lake Winnipeg, the Blue Flag award lets residents and tourists know where it is safe to swim. The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized and respected eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas that have achieved international standards in four categories: water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety and services. Recently it was announced that West Grand Beach (Grand Beach Provincial Park) and Winnipeg Beach (Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park) were awarded with the eco-label this year. And an increasing number of Manitoba beaches are joining the program as candidates (beaches that are in the pilot phase). Blue Flag Program Manager, Brett Tryon, will be available to meet with members of the media to talk about the growth of the program in Manitoba and provide an update on the positive impacts it’s having on beaches in the province. WHERE: Flag-raising ceremony at Winnipeg Beach WHEN: Thursday, June 5th, in-person and telephone interviews, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. WHO: Brett Tryon, Blue Flag Canada Program Manager ABOUT BLUE FLAG (BlueFlag.ca): The Blue Flag award is administered in Canada by Environmental Defence and is managed internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Around the world, more than 4,000 beaches and marinas have been certified in 48 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean. About ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE (environmentaldefence.ca): Environmental Defence is Canada’s most effective environmental action organization. We challenge, and inspire change in government, business and people to ensure a greener, healthier and prosperous life for all. -30- For more information or to arrange an interview please contact: Jen Mayville, Environmental Defence, 416-323-9521 ext. 228; 905-330-0172 (cell); jmayville@environmentaldefence.ca